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Abstract

A field trial was carried out to investigate the effects of various concentrations (0, 1, 2, 3kg.a.i/ha) of metolachlor on physiological growth character of tomato. Results of this study showed that weeds were decreased in proportion to applied concentration of metolachlor. Metolachlor at 3kga.i/ha did not improve physiological growth character of tomato in spite of effective weed reduction. Tomato leaf area ratio (LAR) declination with age was higher in the plots sprayed with metolachlor at 1-2kg.a.i /ha than those obtained in the weedy control plots. The relative growth rate (RGR) and net assimilation rate (NAR) of tomato in the weedy control plots were adversely affected as from 6th week after transplanting .This period coincides with high weed density. However, the relative growth rate (RGR) and net assimilation rate (NAR) of tomato in plots sprayed with metholachlor at 1-2kg.a.i/ha showed vigorous growth till 7th week after transplanting(WAT) before showing declination. These results suggest that metolachlor at 1-2kg.a.i/ha could be an effective and safe herbicide for application in transplanted tomato.

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